Pinette, 50, had suffered from liver and heart disease, according to the Allegheny County Medical Examiner's office. Authorities did not suspect foul play, the Post-Gazette reported. | April 6, 2014»Read Full Article(4)

Soulstice Theatre opened Alexander Dinelaris' "Still Life" this weekend, a wrenching story about some of life's weightiest topics: death, dignity, love, loss and the emotional wounds we all carry to the grave with us. | April 6, 2014»Read Full Article

Director Laura Gordon admits in her program notes for "Skin Tight" that she'd initially had "very mixed feelings" about Renaissance Theaterworks' decision to bring it back — not quite 10 years after she made her professional directorial debut with the same play.

I felt the same way. I cherish my memories of Renaissance's 2004 production of Gary Henderson's gorgeous, hourlong memory play, in which actors Braden Moran and Leah Dutchin gave us the moving story of long-married New Zealanders Tom and Elizabeth. I didn't want a new production messing with those images — or, worse, cheapening them. | April 6, 2014»Read Full Article

Hit a high note

The Florentine Opera Company knows how to enthrall its audience, so its announcement of next season's productions deserves to be made with the proper dose of drama. It will announce its season with a party Tuesday at the Florentine Opera Center, 926 E. Burleigh St. The celebration starts at 6 p.m. with light hors d'oeuvres and beverages. Then, the company's studio artists will entertain, followed by the announcement. It is a free event. Let them know if they can expect you by emailing JBruss@florentineopera.org. | April 6, 2014»Read Full Article